Modular connector and method

ABSTRACT

A connector connects auxiliary flow lines and electrical lines that extend through and terminate at or near opposing ends of two respective components of a downhole tool string. The connector comprises a body assembly for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines and electrically-connecting the electrical lines of the respective two components, and an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly. The two components are discrete modules of a unitary tool, or alternatively, are distinct tools. Additionally, the connector may include a mechanism for closing the auxiliary flow lines of one or both compartments upon disconnection of the fluid connection between the two components.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to connections for transferring auxiliaryfluids and electronic signals/power between components, such as tools ormodules within a tool, in a downhole tool string.

2. Background of the Related Art

Wellbores (also known as boreholes) are drilled for hydrocarbonprospecting and production. It is often desirable to perform variousevaluations of the formations penetrated by a wellbore during drillingoperations, such as during periods when actual drilling has temporarilystopped. In some cases, the drill string may be provided with one ormore drilling tools to test and/or sample the surrounding formation. Inother cases, the drill string may be removed from the wellbore, in asequence called a “trip,” and a wireline tool may be deployed into thewellbore to test and/or sample the formation. The samples or testsperformed by such downhole tools may be used, for example, to locatevaluable hydrocarbon-producing formations and manage the production ofhydrocarbons therefrom.

Such drilling tools and wireline tools, as well as other wellbore toolsconveyed on coiled tubing, drill pipe, casing or other conveyers, arealso referred to herein simply as “downhole tools.” Such downhole toolsmay themselves include a plurality of integrated modules, each forperforming a separate function, and a downhole tool may be employedalone or in combination with other downhole tools in a downhole toolstring.

More particularly, formation evaluation often requires that fluid fromthe formation be drawn into a downhole tool (or module thereof) fortesting in situ and/or sampling. Various devices, such as probes and/orpackers, are extended from the downhole tool to isolate a region of thewellbore wall, and thereby establish fluid communication with theformation surrounding the wellbore. Fluid may then be drawn into thedownhole tool using the probe and/or packer.

The collection of such formation fluid samples while drilling is ideallyperformed with an integrated sampling/pressure tool that containsseveral modules each for performing various functions such as electricalpower supply, hydraulic power supply, fluid sampling (e.g., probe ordual packer), fluid analysis, and sample collection (e.g., tanks). Suchmodules are depicted, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,860,581 and4,936,139. Accordingly, a downhole fluid, such as formation fluid, istypically drawn into the downhole tool for testing and/or sampling. Thisand other types of downhole fluid (other than drilling mud pumpedthrough a drill string) are referred to hereinafter as “auxiliaryfluid.” This auxiliary fluid may be a sampled formation fluid, orspecialty fluids (e.g., workover fluids) for injection into a subsurfaceformation. The auxiliary fluid typically has utility in a downholeoperation, other than merely lubricating a drill bit and/or carryingaway bit cuttings to the surface. This auxiliary fluid may betransferred between modules of an integrated tool such a sampling tool,and/or between tools interconnected in a tool string. Moreover,electrical power and/or electronic signals (e.g., for data transmission)may also be transferred between modules of such tools. A challenge istherefore to maintain a workable tool length (e.g. 30 feet) whileperforming the necessary fluid and electrical transfers between modulesof the tool.

It will be further appreciated that several other applications willrequire the communication of fluid and electrical signals betweensequentially-positioned modules or tools of downhole tool strings—inboth wireline and “while drilling” operations. The “while drilling”operations are typically characterized as part of themeasurement-while-drilling (MWD) and/or logging-while-drilling (LWD)operations, in which the communication of electricity (both power andsignals) across connected tools or integrated tool modules is required.Various devices have been developed to conduct such while drillingoperations, such as the devices disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,242,020,issued to Cobern; U.S. Pat. No. 5,803,186, issued to Berger et al.; U.S.Pat. No. 6,026,915, issued to Smith et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,047,239,issued to Berger et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,157,893, issued to Berger etal.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,179,066, issued to Nasr et al.; and U.S. Pat. No.6,230,557, issued to Ciglenec et al. These patents disclose variousdownhole tools and methods for collecting data, and in some cases fluidsamples, from a subsurface formation.

Despite advances in sampling and testing capabilities in downhole tools,existing systems—particularly “while drilling” systems—are often limitedto solutions for transferring electrical signals across tools or toolmodules. Particular solutions include the various ring-type connectorsat the joints of connected tubular members, such as “wired drill pipe”(WDP), as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,641,434 assigned to Schlumberger,among others. Such WDP connectors are not known to provide for thetransfer of electrical signals between the connected tubular members.

Connectors have also been provided for passing fluid through downholewireline tools. Examples of such connectors are shown in U.S. Pat. No.5,577,925, assigned to Halliburton and U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/710,246. However, no known connectors are disclosed for connectingauxiliary flowlines that extend through and terminate at or nearopposing ends of connected wellbore tubulars, or for facilitating aconnection between connected components. Moreover, known connectors orconnector systems have not been faced with the additional challenges ofdrilling tools which involve drill collar, drilling mud, spacelimitation and harsh drilling issues.

A need therefore exists for a connector that is adapted forcommunicating auxiliary fluid and/or electrical signals between toolmodules and/or tools in a downhole tool string. It is desirable thatsuch a connector exhibit the function of length adjustment so as tocompensate for variations in the separation distance between themodules/tools to be connected. It is further desirable that such aconnector exhibits the function of automatically sealing off auxiliaryfluid flow therethrough upon disconnection of the connectedmodules/tools. It is further desirable that such a connector be modular,and be adaptable for use in varying environments and conditions.

DEFINITIONS

Certain terms are defined throughout this description as they are firstused, while certain other terms used in this description are definedbelow:

“Auxiliary fluid” means a downhole fluid (other than drilling mud pumpedthrough a drill string), such as formation fluid that is typically drawninto the downhole tool for testing and/or sampling, or specialty fluids(e.g., workover fluids) for injection into a subsurface formation. Theauxiliary fluid typically has utility in a downhole operation, otherthan merely lubricating a drill bit and/or carrying away bit cuttings tothe surface.

“Component(s)” means one or more downhole tools or one or more downholetool module(s), particularly when such tools or modules are employedwithin a downhole tool string.

“Electrical” and “electrically” refer to connection(s) and/or line(s)for transmitting electronic signals.

“Electronic signals” mean signals that are capable of transmittingelectrical power and/or data (e.g., binary data).

“Module” means a section of a downhole tool, particularly amulti-functional or integrated downhole tool having two or moreinterconnected modules, for performing a separate or discrete function.

“Modular” means adapted for (inter)connecting modules and/or tools, andpossibly constructed with standardized units or dimensions forflexibility and variety in use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In at least one aspect, the present invention relates to a connector forconnecting auxiliary flow lines that extend through and terminate at ornear opposing ends of two respective components of a downhole toolstring. The connector has a body assembly for fluidly-connecting theauxiliary flow lines of the respective two components, and an assemblyfor adjusting the length of the body assembly.

The two components may be discrete modules of a unitary tool, oralternatively, are distinct tools. A substantial portion of the bodyassembly may be disposed axially between the opposing ends of the twocomponents. The body assembly may include connectable first and secondtubular members. The first and second tubular members can includerespective tubular pin and box portions, and, more particularly, mayinclude adjacent drill collars within a drill string. The auxiliary flowlines of the two components may be substantially axially-oriented. Theaxially-oriented flow lines can be substantially centrally locatedtherein, or can be non-centrally located (i.e., off center) within therespective two components.

The body assembly may define at least one fluid conduit forfluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the two components. Thefirst and second tubular members may cooperate to define at least onefluid conduit for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the twocomponents. The fluid conduit can be axially oriented across the firstand second tubular members, in which case the fluid conduit cancomprise, e.g., a hydraulic stabber oriented axially across the firstand second tubular members. Alternatively, the fluid conduit can beradially oriented across the first and second tubular members, in whichcase the first and second tubular members can, e.g., cooperate to definean annular portion of the fluid conduit across the first and secondtubular members. The first and second tubular members may be threadablyengaged within or near the length-adjusting assembly, and thelength-adjusting assembly facilitates relative rotation between thefirst and second tubular members to adjust the length of the bodyassembly. At least one of the first and second tubular members may havea piston movable through a chamber therein for closing the auxiliaryflow lines of one or both components upon disconnection of the first andsecond tubular members.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a connector forconnecting auxiliary flow lines as well as electrical lines that extendthrough and terminate at or near opposing ends of two respectivecomponents of a downhole tool string. This connector comprises a bodyassembly for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines andelectrically-connecting the electrical lines of the respective twocomponents, and an assembly for adjusting the length of the bodyassembly.

The two components may be discrete modules of a unitary tool, oralternatively, distinct tools. A substantial portion of the bodyassembly may be disposed axially between the opposing ends of the twocomponents. The body assembly may have connectable first and secondtubular members. The first and second tubular members may haverespective tubular pin and box portions, and, more particularly, mayhave adjacent drill collars within a drill string. The auxiliary flowlines of the two components may be substantially axially-oriented. Theaxially-oriented flow lines can be substantially centrally locatedtherein, or can be non-centrally located (i.e., off center) within therespective two components. The body assembly may define at least onefluid conduit for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the twocomponents. The first and second tubular members may cooperate to defineat least one fluid conduit for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flowlines of the two components. The fluid conduit can be axially orientedacross the first and second tubular members, in which case the fluidconduit can comprise a hydraulic stabber oriented axially across thefirst and second tubular members. Alternatively, the fluid conduit canbe radially oriented across the first and second tubular members, inwhich case the first and second tubular members can cooperate to definean annular portion of the fluid conduit across the first and secondtubular members.

The electrical lines of the two components may be substantiallyaxially-oriented. The electrical lines of the two components can besubstantially centrally located, non-centrally located (i.e., offcenter) within the respective two components. The body assembly maydefine at least one conductive pathway for electrically-connecting theelectrical lines of the two components. The first and second tubularmembers may cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway forelectrically-connecting the electrical lines of the two components. Theconductive pathway can be radially oriented across the first and secondtubular members, as in the case of complementing radial electricalcontacts, pin-to-socket connectors, or complementing wet-stab contacts,carried by pin and box portions of the respective first and secondtubular members. Alternatively, the conductive pathway can be axiallyoriented across the first and second tubular members, as in the case ofcomplementing axial electrical contacts carried by the respective firstand second tubular members. Such axial electrical contacts can compriseelectrical stabbers, inductive couplings, or a combination thereof.

The first and second tubular members can be threadably engaged within ornear the length-adjusting assembly, and the length-adjusting assemblyfacilitates relative rotation between the first and second tubularmembers to adjust the length of the body assembly. At least one of thefirst and second tubular members may have a piston movable through achamber therein for closing the auxiliary flow lines of one or bothcomponents upon disconnection of the first and second tubular members.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method forconnecting auxiliary flow lines and electrical lines that extend throughand terminate at or near spaced-apart opposing ends of two respectivecomponents of a downhole tool string. The method comprises the steps ofdetermining the distance between the opposing ends of the twocomponents, and establishing a fluid connection between the auxiliaryflow lines and an electrical connection between the electrical lines ofthe respective two components in accordance with the determineddistance.

The establishing step may involve employing at least one fluid conduitfor fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the two components,and adjusting the length of the fluid conduit as necessary to accordwith the determined distance. The fluid conduit can be substantiallyaxially oriented (e.g., along most of its overall length) between thetwo components, and can also be at least partially radially oriented(e.g., include a segment that is radially oriented) between the twocomponents. The establishing step may involve employing at least oneconductive pathway for electrically-connecting the electrical lines ofthe two components, and adjusting the length of the conductive pathwayas necessary to accord with the determined distance. The conductivepathway can be at least partially radially oriented (e.g., include asegment that is radially oriented) between the two components, and canalso be substantially axially oriented (e.g., along most of its overalllength) between the two components. The method may further involveclosing the auxiliary flow lines of one or both components upondisconnection of the fluid connection between the two components.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a system forcommunicating fluid and electronic signals along a tool string,comprising a first tool string component having at least one auxiliaryflow line and at least one electrical line that extend through andterminate at or near an end of the first component, and a second toolstring component having at least one auxiliary flow line and at leastone electrical line that extend through and terminate at or near an endof the second component. The end of the second component opposes the endof the first component. A body assembly is employed forfluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines and electrically-connectingthe electrical lines of the respective two components. An assembly isemployed for adjusting the length of the body assembly. The first andsecond components may be discrete modules of a unitary tool.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the above recited features and advantages of the presentinvention can be understood in detail, a more particular description ofthe invention, briefly summarized above, is presented by reference tothe embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings.It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate onlytypical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to beconsidered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to otherequally effective embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view, partially in cross-section of a conventionaldrill string extended from a rig into a wellbore, the drill stringhaving a formation tester assembly including a plurality of modulesconnected by connector(s) therebetween.

FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional representation of a portion of the drillstring of FIG. 1 depicting the formation tester assembly and some of itsinterconnected modules in greater detail.

FIG. 3 is a schematic, cross-sectional representation of two componentsof a downhole tool string connected by a generic, modular connector.

FIG. 4 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of adownhole tool string connected by a connector having a centralaxially-oriented fluid conduit, and a central radially-orientedelectrically-conductive pathway.

FIG. 5 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of adownhole tool string connected by a connector having anaxially-oriented, annular fluid conduit, and a central radially-orientedelectrically-conductive pathway.

FIG. 6 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two downhole componentsconnected by a connector that is similar to the connector of FIG. 5,with the interface between the connector and the connected componentsbeing shown in greater detail.

FIG. 7 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of adownhole tool string connected by a connector having an assembly foradjusting the length of the connector.

FIG. 8 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of adownhole tool string connected by a connector provided with an alternateassembly for adjusting the length of the connector.

FIG. 9 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of adownhole tool string connected by a connector having an innerradially-symmetrical fluid conduit, and a central radially-orientedelectrically-conductive pathway.

FIG. 10 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of adownhole tool string connected by a connector having a centralaxially-oriented fluid conduit, and a non-central axially-orientedelectrically-conductive pathway.

FIGS. 11A-B are schematic, cross-sectional views of a portion of a wireddrill pipe system employed by the axially-orientedelectrically-conductive connector pathway of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of adownhole tool string connected by a connector having an outerradially-symmetrical fluid conduit, and a central radially-orientedelectrically-conductive pathway.

FIG. 13 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of two components of adownhole tool string connected by a connector having a non-centralaxially-oriented fluid conduit, and an axially-orientedelectrically-conductive pathway.

FIGS. 14A-B are schematic, cross-sectional view of a connector havingvalves for automatically closing off the flow lines of inter-connectedcomponents upon disconnection of first and second tubular members of theconnector's body assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a connector and system that allows fluidas well as electrical signals to be transferred between nearby tools ormodules while maintaining standard drilling operations. Thus, e.g., byutilizing the present invention, two LWD or wireline tools or modulescan be connected for fluid (hydraulic) and electrical communicationtherebetween. The connector is adaptable for placement anywhere on adownhole tool string where such communication is needed.

FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional drilling rig and drill string in whichthe present invention can be utilized to advantage. A land-basedplatform and derrick assembly 110 are positioned over a wellbore Wpenetrating a subsurface formation F. In the illustrated embodiment, thewellbore W is formed by rotary drilling in a manner that is well known.Those of ordinary skill in the art given the benefit of this disclosurewill appreciate, however, that the present invention also findsapplication in directional drilling applications as well as rotarydrilling, and is not limited to land-based rigs.

A drill string 112 is suspended within the wellbore W and includes adrill bit 115 at its lower end. The drill string 112 is rotated by arotary table 116, energized by means not shown, which engages a kelly117 at the upper end of the drill string. The drill string 112 issuspended from a hook 118, attached to a traveling block (also notshown), through the kelly 117 and the rotary swivel 119 which permitsrotation of the drill string relative to the hook.

Drilling fluid or mud 126 is stored in a pit 127 formed at the wellsite. A pump 129 delivers drilling fluid (also known as mud) 126 to theinterior of the drill string 112 via a port in the swivel 119, inducingthe drilling fluid to flow downwardly through the drill string 112 asindicated by directional arrow 109. The drilling fluid 126 exits thedrill string 112 via ports in the drill bit 115, and then circulatesupwardly through the annulus between the outside of the drill string andthe wall of the wellbore, as indicated by direction arrows 132. In thismanner, the drilling fluid lubricates the drill bit 115 and carriesformation cuttings up to the surface as it is returned to the pit 127for recirculation.

The drill string 112 further includes a bottom hole assembly, generallyreferred to as 100, near the drill bit 115 (in other words, withinseveral drill collar lengths from the drill bit). The bottom holeassembly, or BHA, 100 includes capabilities for measuring, processing,and storing information, as well as communicating with the surface. TheBHA 100 further includes drill collar-conveyed tools, stabilizers, etc.for performing various other measurement functions, and surface/localcommunications subassembly 150 for performing telemetry functions.

Drill string 112 is further equipped in the embodiment of FIG. 1 with adrill collar 130 that houses a formation testing tool having variousconnected modules 130 a, 130 b, and 130 c for performing variousrespective functions such as providing electrical or hydraulic power,flow control, fluid sampling, fluid analysis, and fluid sample storage.Module 130 b is a probe module having a probe 232 for engaging the wallof the wellbore W and extracting representative samples of fluid fromthe formation F, as is generally known to those having ordinary skill inthe art. Another of the modules (e.g., module 130 c) is equipped withPVT-quality chambers (also known as tanks or cylinders) for storage ofrepresentative or “clean” fluid samples communicated through the probemodule 130 b.

FIG. 2 shows the formation tester assembly 130 of FIG. 1 in greaterdetail, particularly the probe module 130 b and sample storage module130 c. The probe module 130 b is equipped with a probe assembly 232 forengaging the wall of the wellbore W and drawing fluid from the formationF into the central flow line 236 via the probe line 234. Valves 238,240, and 242 (among others) are manipulated to fluidly-connect the probe232 to a flow control module (not shown) for drawing the formation fluidinto the flow line 236 and pumping the sampled fluid to appropriatemodules within the formation tester 130 for analysis, discharge to thewellbore annulus, or storage, etc. Probe module 130 c is equipped withone or more sample storage chambers 244 for receiving and storingPVT-quality fluid samples for subsequent analysis at the surface.

Connectors 210 are employed for conducting the sampled fluid between theadjacent modules (which in reality may not be abutting, as suggested inFIG. 2, and explained further below) and for conducting electricalsignals through an electrical line 250 that also runs through themodules for communicating power, and possibly data, between the variousmodules (130 a,b,c) of the formation tester 130. One ore more pressuregauges 246 may be used in cooperation with one or more sampling probes(only one probe 232 is shown) to facilitate fluid sampling and pressuremeasurement, as well as pressure gradient determination and otherreservoir testing operations. Additionally, the integrity of theconnectors 210 may be verified by appropriate use of sensors such as thepressure gauges 246. Accordingly, the inventive connector is adaptableto numerous configurations and applications, and is furthermore notlimited to formation testing tools, as will be apparent to those skilledin the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

FIG. 3 depicts a generic modular connector 310 being used for connectingthe auxiliary flow lines 362, 382 and electrical lines 364 a/b, 384 a/bthat extend through and terminate at or near opposing ends 361, 381 oftwo respective components 360, 380 of a downhole tool string(represented by connected drill collars 306, 308) disposed in a wellboreW penetrating a subsurface formation F. The components 360, 380 may bedistinct downhole tools, and need not be discrete modules of a unitarytool as described above for FIG. 2.

The connector 310 comprises a body assembly 312 for fluidly-connectingthe auxiliary flow lines 362, 382 and electrically-connecting theelectrical lines 364 a/b, 384 a/b of the respective two components 360,380. The body assembly may be substantially unitary, or include two ormore complementing portions as described in the various embodimentsbelow. The body assembly 312 defines at least one fluid conduit 322 forfluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 362, 382 of the twocomponents. Various other fluid conduit solutions are presented in theembodiments presented below. The body assembly is typically equippedwith O-ring seals 324 a/b, 326 a/b for sealing the fluid connectionacross the ends 361, 381 of the connected components 360, 380. It willbe appreciated that O-rings may be similarly used elsewhere for fluidflow integrity, as is known in the art. It will be further appreciatedthat, although O-rings are identified throughout this disclosure forfacilitating seals across various fluid connections, other known sealingmechanisms (e.g., packing rings) may be employed to advantage.Additionally, in at least some embodiments, the connector body assemblywill perform the function of pressure bulkhead that, e.g., preventsflooding of one of the interconnected components from propagating to theother interconnected component(s).

The body assembly is further equipped with at least one conductivepathway (not shown in FIG. 3) for electrically-connecting the electricallines 364 a/b, 384 a/b of the two components 360, 380. Such anelectrical pathway is useful for conducting electrical signals throughthe body assembly, and may be defined in numerous ways as exemplified bythe various embodiments described below.

The connector body assembly can be substantially made out of metal, withglass being employed to seal off connecting pins, contacts, etc.Alternatively, the connector body assembly could be made out of aninsulating thermoplastic (e.g., PEEK™ thermoplastics), or it could bemade of a suitable combination of metal, insulating thermoplasticmaterial, and glass.

A length-adjusting assembly 314, which can incorporate a sleeve member(not shown), is further provided for adjusting the length of the bodyassembly 312 so as to accommodate differing distances d between the ends361, 381 of the tool string components 360, 380 to be connected. Asdescribed further below, the body assembly 312 can include first andsecond members that are threadably interconnected (e.g., to each otheror via a common sleeve or sub). In such instances, the length adjustingassembly 314 may be operative to permit or assist in the rotation of oneor both of the first and second body assembly members so as to adjustthe overall length of the body assembly. It will be appreciated that theoperation of the length-adjusting assembly in such instances issimplified by the disposal of a substantial portion of the body assembly312 axially between the opposing ends 361, 381 of the two components360, 380, although this is not essential.

FIGS. 4-14 depict various versions of a connector usable in connectingcomponents such as proximate modules and/or tools of a downhole toolstring. Each connector has a body assembly that generally comprisesconnectable first and second tubular members. The first and secondtubular members can comprise respective tubular pin and box portions,and, in some embodiments, may comprise adjacent drill collars within adrill string as described below.

FIG. 4 is a sectional representation of a connector 410 having utilityin the axially-oriented, centrally-located auxiliary flow lines 462, 482of two components 460, 480 carried within respective drill collars 406,408. The body assembly 412 of the connector 410 comprises connectablefirst and second tubular members, 412 a/b. The first tubular member 412a is carried for movement with upper component 460 (which is moves withthe upper drill collar 406), and defines a pin portion of the bodyassembly 412. The second tubular member 412 b is carried for movementwith the lower component 480 (which is moves with the lower drill collar408), and defines a box portion of the body assembly 412. As the drillcollars 406, 408 are made up by relative rotation therebetween, the boxand pin portions of the body assembly 412 are also rotated and aredriven into connective engagement so as to define an axially-orientedfluid conduit 422 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 462,482 of the two components 460, 480. O-rings 415 a/b are typicallycarried about a sleeve portion 413 of the first tubular member 412 a,and O-rings 419 a/b are typically carried about the sleeve portion 417of the second tubular member 412 b for sealing the fluid connectionacross the ends 461, 481 of the connected components 460, 480. It willbe appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly usedelsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second tubular members 412 a, 412 b also cooperate todefine at least one conductive pathway 474 for electrically-connectingthe electrical lines 464 a/b, 484 a/b of the two components 460, 480.The electrical lines are attached to the conductive pathway 474 of thebody assembly 412 by way of pins 485, but may also be either soldered orcrimped in place, among other known means of attachment. The conductivepathway 474 is radially oriented (i.e., it includes a segment that isradially oriented) across the first and second tubular members 412 a,412 b by way of complementing radial (annular) electrical contacts 490 a(inner), 490 b (outer) carried by the pin and box portions of therespective first and second tubular members.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 412 isnot shown in FIG. 4, for the sake of simplicity, it should beappreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assemblywill at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particularexamples of such assemblies are discussed below in reference to FIGS.7-8.

FIG. 5 is a sectional representation of a particular connectorembodiment 510 having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliaryflow lines 562, 582 of two components 560, 580 carried within respectivedrill collars 506, 508. The body assembly 512 of the connector 510comprises connectable first and second tubular members, 512 a/b. Thefirst tubular member 512 a is carried for movement with upper component560 (which is fixed to and moves with the upper drill collar 506), anddefines a pin portion of the body assembly 512. The second tubularmember 512 b is carried for movement with the lower component 580 (whichis fixed to and moves with the lower drill collar 508), and defines abox portion of the body assembly 512. Accordingly, as the drill collars506, 508 are made up by relative rotation therebetween, the box and pinportions of the body assembly 512 are also rotated and are driven intoconnective engagement so as to define an axially-oriented, annular fluidconduit 522 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines of the twocomponents 560, 580. O-rings 515 a/b are typically carried about the pinportion of the body assembly 512 for sealing the fluid connection acrossthe first and second tubular members 512 a/b. It will be appreciatedthat O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere forfluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second tubular members 512 a, 512 b also cooperate todefine at least one conductive pathway 574 for electrically-connectingthe electrical lines 564, 584 of the two components 560, 580. Theelectrical lines 564, 584 are attached axially to the conductive pathway574 of the body assembly 512 by way of complementing radial (annular)electrical contacts 583 a (inner), 583 b (outer) and pins 585 in apin-to-socket design (similar to wet stab), but may also be eithersoldered or crimped in place, among other known means of attachment. Theconductive pathway 574 is radially oriented (i.e., it includes a segmentthat is radially oriented) across the first and second tubular members512 a, 512 b by way of complementing radial (annular) electricalcontacts 590 a (inner), 590 b (outer) carried by the pin and boxportions of the respective first and second tubular members 512 a/b.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 512 isnot shown in FIG. 5, for the sake of simplicity, it should beappreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assemblywill at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particularexamples of such assemblies are discussed below in reference to FIGS.7-8.

FIG. 6 is a sectional representation of an alternate connector 610having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliary flow lines662, 682 of two components 660, 680 carried within respective drillcollars 606, 608. The body assembly 612 of the connector 610 comprisesconnectable first and second tubular members, 612 a/b. The first tubularmember 612 a is carried for movement with upper component 660 (which isfixed to and moves with the upper drill collar 606), and defines a pinportion of the body assembly 612. The second tubular member 612 b iscarried for movement with the lower component 680, which is fixed to andmoves with the lower drill collar 608), and defines a box portion of thebody assembly 612. Accordingly, as the drill collars 606, 608 are madeup by relative rotation therebetween, the box and pin portions of thebody assembly 612 are also rotated and are driven into connectiveengagement so as to define an axially-oriented, annular fluid conduit622 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 662, 682 of the twocomponents 660, 680. O-rings 615 a/b are typically carried about the pinportion of the body assembly 612 for sealing the fluid connection acrossthe first and second tubular members 612 a/b. It will be appreciatedthat O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere forfluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second tubular members 612 a, 612 b also cooperate todefine at least one conductive pathway 674 for electrically-connectingthe electrical lines 664, 684 of the two components 660, 680. Theelectrical lines 664, 684 are attached axially to the conductive pathway674 of the body assembly 612 by way of pins 685, 687 in pin-to-socketdesigns, but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, amongother known means of attachment. The conductive pathway 674 is radiallyoriented (i.e., it includes a segment that is radially oriented) acrossthe first and second tubular members 612 a, 612 b by way of upper andlower pairs of complementing radial (annular) electrical contacts 690 a(inner), 690 b (outer) carried by the pin and box portions of therespective first and second tubular members 612 a/b.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 612 isnot shown in FIG. 6, for the sake of simplicity, it should beappreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assemblywill at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particularexamples of such assemblies are discussed below in reference to FIGS.7-8.

FIG. 7 shows a sectional representation of a particular connectorembodiment 710 having utility in the axially-oriented auxiliary flowlines (not shown) of two components 760, 780 carried within respectivedrill collars 706, 708. The body assembly 712 of the connector 710comprises connectable first and second tubular members, 712 a/b. Thefirst tubular member 712 a is carried for movement with upper component760 (which moves with the upper drill collar 706), and defines a boxportion of the body assembly 712. The second tubular member 712 b iscarried for movement with the lower component 780 (which moves with thelower drill collar 708), and defines a pin portion of the body assembly712. Accordingly, as the drill collars 706, 708 are made up by relativerotation therebetween, the box and pin portions of the body assembly 712are also rotated and are driven into connective engagement so as todefine an axially-oriented, fluid conduit having linear portions 722 aand annular portions 722 b for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flowlines (not shown) of the two components 760, 780. O-rings 715 a/b aretypically carried about the pin portion of the body assembly 712 forsealing the fluid connection across the first and second tubular members712 a/b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means maybe similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in theart.

The first and second tubular members 712 a, 712 b also cooperate todefine at least one conductive pathway 774 for electrically-connectingthe electrical lines 764, 784 of the two components 760, 780. Theelectrical lines 764, 784 extend partially through the fluid conduit 722a and are attached axially to the conductive pathway 774 of the bodyassembly 712 by way of a pin-to-socket design 785 a/b (similar to wetstab), but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, among otherknown means of attachment. The conductive pathway 774 is radiallyoriented (i.e., it includes a segment that is radially oriented) acrossthe first and second tubular members 712 a, 712 b by way of thecomplementing electrical socket 785 a (inner) and electrical pin 785 b(outer) carried by the box and pin portions of the respective first andsecond tubular members 712 a/b.

FIG. 7 further shows, in some detail, an assembly 714 for adjusting thelength of the connector. The process of adjusting the length essentiallyincludes the steps of determining the distance between the opposing endsof the two components 760, 780, and shortening or lengthening the fluidconnection between the auxiliary flow lines and the electricalconnection between the electrical lines of the respective two componentsin accordance with the determined distance. The length-adjustingassembly 714 includes a sleeve 730 that is removably fixed about thelower component 780 by a plurality of locking screws 732. The lowercomponent 780 has an upper, reduced-diameter portion 780 a that fitswithin a lower portion (not separately numbered) of the second tubularmember 712 b of the connector body assembly 712. The lower componentportion 780 a and second tubular member 712 b are equipped withcomplementing threaded surfaces for threadable engagement as referencedat 734. The second tubular member 712 b includes a key slot 736 in theregion of its threaded surface for receiving a key 738 which (incooperation with the sleeve 730) prevents the second tubular member 712b from rotating. Thus, when the sleeve 730 and key 738 are removed, thesecond tubular member 712 b is free to be rotated under an appliedtorque.

The length adjustment of the connector 710 preferably is carried outbefore the first and second tubular members 712 a, 712 b, the components760, 780, and the length-adjusting assembly 714 are disposed within thedrill collars 706, 708. Essentially, the lower component 780 is heldagainst rotation while torque is applied to the second tubular member712 b, resulting in rotation of the second tubular member 712 b relativeto the lower component 780. Such relative rotation has the effect ofmoving the second tubular member 712 b axially along (up or down) thelower component portion 780 a as required for proper engagement betweenthe second tubular member 712 b and the first tubular member 712 a whenboth members are mounted within their respective drill collars 706, 708and made up by relative rotation between these drill collars. The lengthadjustment is therefore carried out by way of manipulating the positionof the second tubular member 712 b along the lower component 780. Thefirst tubular member 712 a is typically held in one position along theupper component 760, although the electrical socket 785 a may bespring-biased downwardly to facilitate its engagement with electricalpin 785 b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing meansmay be used in various locations (not numbered) for fluid flowintegrity.

FIG. 8 shows a sectional representation of an alternate connector 810having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliary flow lines862, 882 of two components 860, 880 carried within respective drillcollars 806, 808. The body assembly 812 of the connector 810 comprisesconnectable first, second, and third tubular members, 812 a/b/c. Thefirst and second tubular members 812 a/b are carried for movement withupper component 860 which is fixed to and moves with an upper drillcollar 806. The first tubular member 812 a include concentric tubularportions that define an outer box portion 812 a ₁ and an inner pinportion 812 a ₂ of the body assembly 812. The second tubular member 812b is slidably connected to the third tubular member 812 c (i.e.,permitting relative rotation therebetween) using O-rings 815 c, andincludes concentric tubular portions that define an outer pin portion812 b ₁ and an inner box portion 812 b ₂ of the body assembly 812. Thethird tubular member 812 c is carried for movement with the lowercomponent 880 which is fixed to and moves with a lower drill collar 808.Accordingly, as the upper and lower drill collars 806, 808 are made upby relative rotation therebetween, the box and pin portions of the bodyassembly 812 (defined by the second and third tubular members 812 b/c,respectively) are also rotated and are driven into connective engagementso as to define an axially-oriented, annular fluid conduit 822 forfluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 862, 882 of the twocomponents 860, 880. O-ring sets 815 a/b are typically carried about therespective pin portions of the body assembly 812 for sealing the fluidconnection across the first and second tubular members 812 a/b. It willbe appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly usedelsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

The first and second tubular members 812 a, 812 b also cooperate todefine at least one conductive pathway 874 for electrically-connectingthe electrical lines 864, 884 of the two components 860, 880. Theelectrical lines 864, 884 are attached axially to the conductive pathway874 of the body assembly 812 by way of respective upper/lower wet stabs885 a/b, but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, amongother known means of attachment. The conductive pathway 874 is partiallyprovided by an overlength of conductive wire(s) 890 (note the coiledregion 890 c) within a central conduit 891 defined by the first andsecond tubular members 812 a, 812 b.

FIG. 8 further shows, in some detail, an alternate assembly 814 foradjusting the length of the connector 810. The process of adjusting thelength essentially includes the steps of determining the distancebetween the opposing ends of the two components 860, 880, and shorteningor lengthening the fluid connection between the auxiliary flow lines andthe electrical connection between the electrical lines of the respectivetwo components in accordance with the determined distance. Thelength-adjusting assembly 814 includes a collar or cap 830 that islockable about the lower component 880 by way of a lock washer 831 andwedge ring 832 that are drivable by rotation of the collar 830 (seethreaded region 829) into locking engagement with a lower shoulder ofthe outer box portion 812 a ₁. A split, externally-threaded ring 827 iscarried about a reduced-diameter portion of the outer pin portion 812 b₁. The outer pin portion 812 b ₁ and ring 827 fit within the outer boxportion 812 a ₁ which is equipped with internal threads that complementthe threads of the ring 827. Thus, when the wedge ring 832 is backed offfrom locking engagement with external box portion 812 a ₁, the firsttubular member 812 a is free to be rotated under an applied torque.

The length adjustment of the connector 810 preferably is carried outbefore the first, second, and third tubular members 812 a/b/c, thecomponents 860, 880, and the length-adjusting assembly 814 are disposedwithin the drill collars 806, 808. The application of torque to thefirst tubular member 812 a will result in rotation of the first tubularmember 812 a relative to the threaded ring 827. Such relative rotationhas the effect of moving the second tubular member 812 b axially along(up or down) the first tubular component 812 a as required for properengagement between the second tubular member 812 b and the third tubularmember 812 c when both members are mounted within their respective drillcollars 806, 808 and made up by relative rotation between these drillcollars. The length adjustment is therefore carried out by way ofmanipulating the position of the second tubular member 812 b along thefirst tubular member 812 a. The third tubular member 812 c is typicallyheld in one position along the lower component 880.

The embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 7-8 employ length-adjustingassemblies 714, 814 that facilitate relative rotation generally betweenfirst and second tubular members to adjust the length of the bodyassemblies 712, 812. It will be appreciated by those having ordinaryskill in the art, however, that other length-adjusting assemblies may beemployed to advantage. Examples include assemblies that facilitaterelative sliding, telescoping, or other translatory motion between firstand second tubular members as appropriate to adjust the length of theconnector body assembly.

FIG. 9 is a sectional representation of an alternate connector 910having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliary flow lines962, 982 of two components 960, 980 carried within respective drillcollars 906, 908. The body assembly 912 of the connector 910 comprisesconnectable first and second tubular members, 912 a/b. The first tubularmember 912 a is carried for movement with upper component 960 (which isfixed to and moves with the upper drill collar 906), and defines a pinportion of the body assembly 912. The second tubular member 912 b iscarried for movement with the lower component 980 (which is fixed to andmoves with the lower drill collar 908), and defines a box portion of thebody assembly 912. Accordingly, as the drill collars 906, 908 are madeup by relative rotation therebetween, the box and pin portions of thebody assembly 912 are also rotated and are driven into connectiveengagement so as to define an axially-oriented, fluid conduit 922 a/bhaving an annular space 922 c across the first and second tubularmembers 912 a/b (i.e., at the interface of the connected members) forfluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 962, 982 of the twocomponents 960, 980. O-rings 915 are typically carried about the pinportion of the body assembly 912, and one or more face seals 917 aretypically disposed about the end portions of the first and secondtubular members 912 a/b that define the annular space 922 c, for sealingthe fluid connection across the first and second tubular members 912a/b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may besimilarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in theart.

The first and second tubular members 912 a, 912 b also cooperate todefine at least one conductive pathway 974 for electrically-connectingthe electrical lines 964, 984 of the two components 960, 980. Theelectrical lines 964, 984 are attached axially to the conductive pathway974 of the body assembly 912 by way of complementing upper radial(annular) electrical contacts 991 a (inner), 991 b (outer),complementing lower radial (annular) electrical contacts 993 a (inner),993 b (outer), pins 985 and a pin-to-socket design (similar to wetstab), but may also be either soldered or crimped in place, among otherknown means of attachment. More particularly, the conductive pathway 974is radially oriented (i.e., it includes a segment that is radiallyoriented) across the first and second tubular members 912 a, 912 b byway of upper and lower pairs of complementing radial (annular)electrical contacts 990 a (inner), 990 b (outer) carried by the pin andbox portions of the respective first and second tubular members 912 a/b.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 912 isnot shown in FIG. 9, for the sake of simplicity, it should beappreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assemblywill at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particularexamples of such assemblies are discussed above in reference to FIGS.7-8.

FIG. 10 is a sectional representation of an alternate connector 1010having utility in the axially-oriented auxiliary flow lines 1062, 1082of two components 1060, 1080 carried within respective drill collars1006, 1008. The body assembly 1012 of the connector 1010 comprises asingle hydraulic stabber 1013 equipped with O-rings 1015. The hydraulicstabber 1013 is equipped with two or more O-rings 1015 for fluidlyengaging both of the components 1060, 1080 (which move with therespective drill collars 1006, 1008). Accordingly, as the drill collars1006, 1008 are made up by relative rotation therebetween, the components1060, 1080 are also rotated and are driven into fluid engagement, viathe hydraulic stabber 1013 and central bores 1061, 1081 in therespective ends thereof, so as to define an axially-oriented fluidconduit 1022 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 1062, 1082of the two components 1060, 1080. It will be appreciated that O-rings orother sealing means may be similarly used elsewhere for fluid flowintegrity, as is known in the art.

The body assembly 1012 of the connector 1010 further comprises aconductive pathway 1120 for electrically-connecting the electrical lines1064, 1084 of the drill collars 1006, 1008 associated with the tworespective components 1060, 1080.

FIGS. 11A-B are detailed, sectional representations of axially-orientedelectrically-conductive pathway 1120 of FIG. 10. The wired drill pipe(WDP) joints 1110 represent a suitable configuration for implementingthe electrically-conductive pathway 1120 into drill collars 1006, 1008.The joints 1110 are similar to the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.6,641,434 by Boyle et al., assigned to the assignee of the presentinvention, and utilize communicative couplers—particularly inductivecouplers—to transmit signals across the WDP joints. An inductive couplerin the WDP joints, according to Boyle et al., comprises a transformerthat has a toroidal core made of a high permeability, low loss materialsuch as Supermalloy (which is a nickel-iron alloy processed forexceptionally high initial permeability and suitable for low levelsignal transformer applications). A winding, consisting of multipleturns of insulated wire, coils around the toroidal core to form atoroidal transformer. In one configuration, the toroidal transformer ispotted in rubber or other insulating materials, and the assembledtransformer is recessed into a groove located in the drill pipeconnection.

More particularly, the WDP joint 1110 is shown to have communicativecouplers 1121, 1131—particularly inductive coupler elements—at or nearthe respective end 1141 of box end 1122 and the end 1134 of pin end 1132thereof. A first cable 1114 extends through a conduit 1113 to connectthe communicative couplers, 1121,1131 in a manner that is describedfurther below.

The WDP joint 1110 is equipped with an elongated tubular body 1111having an axial bore 1112, a box end 1122, a pin end 1132, and a firstcable 1114 running from the box end 1122 to the pin end 1132. A firstcurrent-loop inductive coupler element 1121 (e.g., a toroidaltransformer) and a similar second current-loop inductive coupler element1131 are disposed at the box end 1122 and the pin end 1132,respectively. The first current-loop inductive coupler element 1121, thesecond current-loop inductive coupler element 1131, and the first cable1114 collectively provide a communicative conduit across the length ofeach WDP joint. An inductive coupler (or communicative connection) 1120at the coupled interface between two WDP joints is shown as beingconstituted by a first inductive coupler element 1121 from WDP joint1110 and a second current-loop inductive coupler element 1131′ from thenext tubular member, which may be another WDP joint. Those skilled inthe art will recognize that, in some embodiments of the presentinvention, the inductive coupler elements may be replaced with othercommunicative couplers serving a similar communicative function, suchas, e.g., direct electrical-contact connections of the sort disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 4,126,848 by Denison.

FIG. 11B depicts the inductive coupler or communicative connection 1120of FIG. 11A in greater detail. Box end 1122 includes internal threads1123 and an annular inner contacting shoulder 1124 having a first slot1125, in which a first toroidal transformer 1126 is disposed. Thetoroidal transformer 1126 is connected to the cable 1114. Similarly,pin-end 1132′ of an adjacent wired tubular member (e.g., another WDPjoint) includes external threads 1133′ and an annular inner contactingpipe end 1134′ having a second slot 1135′, in which a second toroidaltransformer 1136′ is disposed. The second toroidal transformer 1136′ isconnected to a second cable 1114′ of the adjacent tubular member 9 a.The slots 1125 and 1135′ may be clad with a high-conductivity,low-permeability material (e.g., copper) to enhance the efficiency ofthe inductive coupling. When the box end 1122 of one WDP joint isassembled with the pin end 1132′ of the adjacent tubular member (e.g.,another WDP joint), a communicative connection is formed. FIG. 11B thusshows a cross section of a portion of the resulting interface, in whicha facing pair of inductive coupler elements (i.e., toroidal transformers1126, 1136′) are locked together to form a communicative connectionwithin an operative communication link. This cross-sectional view alsoshows that the closed toroidal paths 1140 and 1140′ enclose the toroidaltransformers 1126 and 1136′, respectively, and that the conduits 1113and 1113′ form passages for internal electrical cables 1114 and 1114′(having use as the conductors 1064, 1084 of FIG. 10) that connect thetwo inductive coupler elements disposed at the two ends of each WDPjoint.

The above-described inductive couplers incorporate an electric couplermade with a dual toroid. The dual-toroidal coupler uses inner shouldersof the pin and box ends as electrical contacts. The inner shoulders arebrought into engagement under extreme pressure as the pin and box endsare made up, assuring electrical continuity between the pin and the boxends. Currents are induced in the metal of the connection by means oftoroidal transformers placed in slots. At a given frequency (for example100 kHz), these currents are confined to the surface of the slots byskin depth effects. The pin and the box ends constitute the secondarycircuits of the respective transformers, and the two secondary circuitsare connected back to back via the mating inner shoulder surfaces.

While FIGS. 11A-B depict certain communicative coupler types, it will beappreciated by one of skill in the art that a variety of couplers may beused for communication of signals across interconnected tubular members.For example, such systems may involve magnetic couplers, such as thosedescribed in International Patent Application No. WO 02/06716 to Hall etal. Other systems and/or couplers are also envisioned.

Additionally, while an assembly for adjusting the length of the bodyassembly 1012 is not shown in FIG. 10 or FIGS. 11A-B, for the sake ofsimplicity, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatsuch an additional assembly will at least be desirable in a number ofapplications. Particular examples of such assemblies are discussed abovein reference to FIGS. 7-8.

FIG. 12 is a sectional representation of an alternate connector 1210having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliary flow lines1262, 1282 of two components 1260, 1280 carried within respective drillcollars 1206, 1208. The body assembly 1212 of the connector 1210comprises connectable first and second subassemblies, 1212 a/b.

The first subassembly 1212 a is carried for movement with the uppercomponent 1260, and includes the drill collar 1206 and an upper mandrel1213 a fixed (e.g., by threaded engagement) within the drill collar1206. The upper mandrel 1213 a includes a flowline 1221 a that extendsaxially through the mandrel (from the upper connected component, 1260)before jutting outwardly to engage the annular region 1223 a _(r) of aflowline 1223 a within the drill collar 1206. As the first bodysubassembly 1212 a is made up by the engagement of the upper mandrel1213 a within the upper drill collar 1206 (e.g., by threaded rotationtherebetween), the radially-jutting end of the flowline 1221 a will beplaced in vertical engagement with the annular region 1223 a _(r) of theflowline 1223 a to establish an upper flowlink.

The second subassembly 1212 b is carried for movement with the lowercomponent 1280, and includes the drill collar 1208 and a lower mandrel1213 b fixed (e.g., by threaded engagement) within the drill collar1208. The lower mandrel 1213 b includes a flowline 1221 b that extendsaxially through the mandrel (from the lower connected component, 1280)before jutting outwardly to engage the annular region 1223 b _(r) of aflowline 1223 b within the drill collar 1208. As the second bodysubassembly 1212 b is made up by the engagement of the lower mandrel1213 b within the lower drill collar 1208 (e.g., by threaded rotationtherebetween), the radially-jutting end of the flowline 1221 b will beplaced in vertical engagement with the annular region 1223 b _(r) of theflowline 1223 b to establish a lower flowlink.

As the drill collars 1206, 1208 are made up by relative rotationtherebetween. Drilling mud 109 passes through passage 1207 extendingthrough drill collars 1206 and 1208 as indicated by the arrows. Thefirst and second subassemblies 1212 a/b of the body assembly 1212 arealso rotated and are driven into connective engagement so as to definean outer radially-oriented (more particularly, a radially-symmetrical)fluid conduit 1222 for fluidly-connecting the upper and lower flowlinksof the respective first and second boy subassemblies. This processfluidly interconnects the two components 1260, 1280. O-rings 1215 aretypically carried about upper and lower mandrels 1213 a/b for sealingthe fluid connection across the first and second body subassemblies 1212a/b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may besimilarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in theart.

The first and second body subassemblies 1212 a, 1212 b also cooperate todefine at least one conductive pathway 1274 for electrically-connectingthe electrical lines 1264, 1284 of the two components 1260, 1280. Theelectrical lines 1264, 1284 are attached axially to the conductivepathway 1274 of the body assembly 1212 by way of complementing upperradial (annular) electrical contacts 1291 a (inner), 1291 b (outer),complementing lower radial (annular) electrical contacts 1293 a (inner),1293 b (outer), a pin-to-socket design 1285 (similar to wet stab), andcomplementing radial (annular) electrical contacts 1290 a (inner), 1290b (outer). It will be appreciated that other known means of electricalattachment may be employed. The conductive pathway 1274 is radiallyoriented (i.e., it includes a segment that is radially oriented) acrossthe first and second body subassemblies 1212 a, 1212 b by way of upperand lower pairs of complementing radial (annular) electrical contacts1290 a (inner), 1290 b (outer) carried by the respective pin and socketcomponents of the design 1285.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 1212 isnot shown in FIG. 12, for the sake of simplicity, it should beappreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assemblywill at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particularexamples of such assemblies are discussed above in reference to FIGS.7-8.

FIG. 13 is a sectional representation of an alternate connector 1310having utility in the axially-oriented, annular auxiliary flow lines1362, 1382 of two components 1360, 1380 carried within respective drillcollars 1306, 1308. The body assembly 1312 of the connector 1310comprises a single hydraulic stabber 1313 equipped with O-rings 1315.The hydraulic stabber 1313 is equipped with two or more O-rings 1315 forfluidly engaging both of the components 1360, 1380 (which are fixed toand move with the respective drill collars 1306, 1308). It will beappreciated that O-rings or other sealing means may be similarly usedelsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in the art.

A connecting sub 1307 is disposed between the drill collars 1306, 1308for interconnecting the drill collars. The sub 1307 employs pin and boxend thread sets that are adapted for engaging the respective thread setsof the opposing ends of the drill collars 1306, 1308, and for drawingboth of the drill collars towards the sub 1307 into threaded engagementas the sub is rotated. Thus, rotation of the sub 1307 after its threadshave initially engaged the threads of the respective drill collars—andthe drill collars are held against rotation at the drilling ring floor(e.g., in a conventional manner)—will effect the make-up of the drillcollars 1306, 1308 without the drill collars themselves undergoingrotation (only translation). This is necessary since the flowlines 1362,1382 are not radially symmetric (i.e., their engagement is dependentupon proper radial alignment).

Accordingly, as the drill collars 1306, 1308 are made up by rotation ofthe connecting sub 1307, the components 1360, 1380 are drawn into fluidengagement, via the hydraulic stabber 1313 and central bores 1361, 1381in the respective ends thereof, so as to define an axially-orientedfluid conduit 1322 for fluidly-connecting the auxiliary flow lines 1362,1382 of the two components 1360, 1380.

The body assembly 1312 further comprises multiple complementingpin-to-socket electrical contacts 1390 a (upper pins), 1390 b (lowersockets) that cooperate to define at least one conductive pathway 1374for electrically-connecting the electrical lines 1364, 1384 of the twocomponents 1360, 1380. The electrical lines 1364, 1384 are attachedaxially to the conductive pathway 1374 of the body assembly 1312 by wayof pins 1385 in a pin-to-socket design, but may also be either solderedor crimped in place, among other known means of attachment. Theconductive pathway 1374 is radially oriented (i.e., it includes asegment that is radially oriented) across the upper and lower pairs ofcomplementing pin-to-socket electrical contacts 1390 a (upper pins),1390 b (lower sockets).

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 1312 isnot shown in FIG. 13, for the sake of simplicity, it should beappreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assemblywill at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particularexamples of such assemblies are discussed above in reference to FIGS.7-8.

FIGS. 14A-B are sequential, sectional representations of a particularembodiment of a connector 1410 having means for automatically closingoff the flow lines of the connected components upon disconnection offirst and second tubular members of the body assembly 1412. Theconnector embodiment 1410 has utility in the axially-oriented, auxiliaryflow lines (not shown) of two components (not shown) carried withinrespective drill collars 1406, 1408. The body assembly of the connector1410 comprises connectable first and second tubular members, 1412 a/b.The first tubular member 1412 a is carried for movement with the uppercomponent (not shown) which is fixed to and moves with an upper drillcollar 1406, and includes concentric tubular portions that define anouter box portion 1412 a ₁ and an inner box portion 1412 a ₂ of the bodyassembly.

The second tubular member 1412 b is carried for movement with the lowercomponent (not shown) which moves with the lower drill collar 1408, andincludes concentric tubular portions that define an outer pin portion1412 b ₁ and an inner pin portion 1412 b ₂ of the body assembly 1412.Accordingly, as the upper and lower drill collars 1406, 1408 are made up(made-up engagement shown in FIG. 14B) by relative rotationtherebetween, the box and pin portions of the body assembly 1412 arealso rotated and are driven into connective engagement so as to definean axially-oriented, annular fluid conduit for fluidly-connecting theauxiliary flow lines (not shown) of the two components (not shown).

The annular fluid conduit includes a first conduit portion 1422 a formedin the first tubular member 1412 a, a second conduit portion 1422 bformed in the second tubular member 1412 b, and an intermediate thirdconduit portion 1422 c formed upon the engagement of the first andsecond tubular members 1412 a/b of the body assembly 1412. Each of thefirst and second tubular members 1412 a/b comprise a valve defined inthis embodiment by a respective annular piston 1423 a/b movable througha chamber defined by an annulus 1425 a/b (see FIG. 14A) therein forautomatically opening the third conduit portion 1422 c of the auxiliaryflow line upon connection of the first and second tubular members 1412a/b and automatically closing the third conduit portion 1422 c upondisconnection of the first and second tubular members 1412 a/b.

Thus, piston 1423 a, which is moved by its engagement with the outer pinportion 1412 b ₁ from a closing position to an opening position (seesequence from FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B), will automatically move back to theclosing position by the application of fluid pressure (or, alternativeforce-applying means, such as a coil spring) in the first conduitportion 1422 a and fourth conduit portion 1422 d when the first andsecond tubular members 1412 a/b are disengaged. Similarly, piston 1423b, which is moved by its engagement with the inner box portion 1412 a ₂from a closing position to an opening position (see sequence from FIG.14A to FIG. 14B), will automatically move back to the closing positionby the application of fluid pressure (or, alternative force-applyingmeans, such as a coil spring) in the second conduit portion 1422 b andfifth conduit portion 1422 e when the first and second tubular members1412 a/b are disengaged. O-ring sets (not numbered) are typicallycarried about the respective pin portions of the body assembly 1412 forsealing the fluid connection across the first and second tubular members1412 a/b. It will be appreciated that O-rings or other sealing means maybe similarly used elsewhere for fluid flow integrity, as is known in theart.

The first and second tubular members 1412 a, 1412 b also cooperate todefine at least one conductive pathway 1474 for electrically-connectingthe electrical lines 1464, 1484 (see FIG. 14A) of the two components(not numbered). The electrical lines 1464, 1484 are attached axially tothe conductive pathway of the body assembly 1412 by way of respectiveupper (box) and lower (pin) wet stab members 1485 a/b, but may also beeither soldered or crimped in place, among other known means ofattachment.

While an assembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly 1412 isnot shown in FIG. 14, for the sake of simplicity, it should beappreciated by those skilled in the art that such an additional assemblywill at least be desirable in a number of applications. Particularexamples of such assemblies are discussed above in reference to FIGS.7-8.

This description is intended for purposes of illustration only andshould not be construed in a limiting sense. The scope of this inventionshould be determined only by the language of the claims that follow. Theterm “comprising” within the claims is intended to mean “including atleast” such that the recited listing of elements in a claim are an openset or group. Similarly, the terms “containing,” having,” and“including” are all intended to mean an open set or group of elements.“A,” “an” and other singular terms are intended to include the pluralforms thereof unless specifically excluded.

1. A connection within a downhole tool string positionable in a wellborepenetrating a subterranean formation, the connection comprising: firstand second drill collars adjacently coupled within a downhole toolstring positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation;first and second auxiliary flow lines extending through and terminatingat or near opposing ends of the first and second drill collars,respectively, wherein the first and second auxiliary flow lines transmitauxiliary fluid and do not transmit drilling mud or other fluid utilizedto lubricate a drill bit or carry away bit cuttings; a body assemblyfluidly-connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines; and anassembly for adjusting the length of the body assembly; wherein the bodyassembly comprises a first fluid conduit and a second fluid conduit,wherein the first fluid conduit is fluidly connected to the firstauxiliary flow line, wherein the second fluid conduit is fluidlyconnected to the second auxiliary flow line, and wherein the first andsecond fluid conduits are substantially axially-oriented.
 2. Theconnection of claim 1, wherein the body assembly defines at least onefluid conduit fluidly-connecting the first and second auxiliary flowlines.
 3. A connection within a downhole tool string, the connectioncomprising: first and second adjacent drill collars within a downholetool string, wherein the first drill collar includes a first auxiliaryflow line and a first electrical line each terminating at or near an endof the first drill collar, wherein the second drill collar includes asecond auxiliary flow line and a second electrical line each terminatingat or near an end of the second drill collar, and wherein the end of thefirst drill collar opposes the end of the second drill collar; a bodyassembly fluidly-connecting the first and second auxiliary flow linesand electrically-connecting the first and second electrical lines; andan assembly that adjusts the length of the body assembly; wherein thefirst and second drill collars are configured to transmit a drillingfluid, and wherein the first and second auxiliary flow lines areconfigured to transmit auxiliary fluid separate from the drilling fluid.4. The connection of claim 3, wherein the body assembly comprises afirst fluid conduit and a second fluid conduit, wherein the first fluidconduit is fluidly connected to the first auxiliary flow line, whereinthe second fluid conduit is fluidly connected to the second auxiliaryflow line, and wherein the first and second fluid conduits aresubstantially axially-oriented.
 5. The connection of claim 3, whereinthe body assembly defines at least one fluid conduit fluidly-connectingthe first and second auxiliary flow lines.
 6. The connection of claim 3,wherein the body assembly comprises a first electrical conductor and asecond electrical conductor, wherein the first electrical conductor iselectrically connected to the first electrical line, wherein the secondelectrical conductor is electrically connected to the second electricalline, and wherein the first and second electrical conductors aresubstantially axially-oriented.
 7. The connection of claim 3, whereinthe body assembly defines at least one conductive pathwayelectrically-connecting the first and second electrical lines.
 8. Aconnection within a downhole tool string positionable in a wellborepenetrating a subterranean formation, the connection comprising: firstand second drill collars adjacently coupled within a downhole toolstring positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation;first and second auxiliary flow lines extending through and terminatingat or near opposing ends of the first and second drill collars,respectively, wherein the first and second auxiliary flow lines isolateauxiliary fluid from drilling mud transmitted within the downhole toolstring; a body assembly fluidly-connecting the first and secondauxiliary flow lines; and an assembly that adjusts the length of thebody assembly.
 9. The connection of claim 8, wherein the body assemblycomprises a first fluid conduit and a second fluid conduit, wherein thefirst fluid conduit is fluidly connected to the first auxiliary flowline, wherein the second fluid conduit is fluidly connected to thesecond auxiliary flow line, and wherein the first and second fluidconduits are substantially axially-oriented.
 10. The connection of claim8, wherein the body assembly defines at least one fluid conduitfluidly-connecting the first and second auxiliary flow lines.